CHAPTER 2 Foundations and Definitions of Theory Building
Mar 23, 2016
CHAPTER 2
Foundations and
Definitions of Theory Building
Chapter 2 – Foundations and Definitions of Theory Building
Chapter Outline• Introduction• Definitions of Theory• Research Paradigms in Theory Building• Types of Theories• Existing Work on Theory Building• A Theory Framework• General Criteria for Assessing Theories• Conclusions
Definitions of TheoryA set of linked concepts with relationships specified and described:• A theory describes a specific realm of knowledge and explains how it works. • Applied disciplines are realms of study and practice that
are fully understood through their use in the functioning world.
• Theories Versus Models• Positivism• Interpretivism• Critical Science
Philosophical Orientations for Theory Building
Research Paradigms in Theory Building• Quantitative• Qualitative• Mixed Methods
Types of Theories• Grand Theories• Midrange Theories• Local Theories• Theory Type Connections
Existing Work on Theory Building• MANAGEMENT• HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT• SOCIOLOGY• NURSING• EDUCATION• COMMUNICATION• LEADERSHIP• PUBLIC POLICY• ARCHITECTURE• ETC.
A Theory Framework
General Criteria for Assessing Theories
• Importance• Preciseness & Clarity• Parsimony & Simplicity• Comprehensiveness• Operationality• Empirical Validity or Verifiability• Fruitfulness• Practicality
ConclusionA summary of the Foundational and Definitional Differences in Theory Building